Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 200 m
Frequently asked questions
West Sands Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +9.7°C, warms up to +14.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
West Sands Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.7 m.
West Sands Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
West Sands Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 200 metres.
West Sands Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July, August. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
West Sands Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
West Sands Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
West Sands Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor.
West Sands Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Dook Cafe, Tom Morris Bar and Grill. Cuisines available: British, Grill. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
West Sands Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Windbreaker, Comfortable shoes, Cash.
West Sands Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from June to September. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — beautiful sunsets over the North Sea.
West Sands Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs are restricted at the town end of the beach from May to September. Littering and open fires are prohibited.
West Sands Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
West Sands Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families, runners and lovers of long walks. Suitable for swimming in summer thanks to RNLI lifeguards. Not suitable for those seeking solitude — the beach is popular.
West Sands Beach: what makes this beach unique?
West Sands Beach is famous for the opening scene of the 1981 film Chariots of Fire. The dunes are part of a Special Area of Conservation and home to rare plants and animals.
West Sands Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Two-mile wide sandy beach, RNLI lifeguards in summer, Scenic dunes, Free parking, Cafes and toilets nearby, Famous Chariots of Fire filming location, Views of golf courses. Cons: Water is cool for swimming, Can be windy, Dogs restricted at the town end in May-September, No natural shade.
West Sands Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Old Course, St Andrews Cathedral Ruins, St Andrews Castle. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
West Sands Beach: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
West Sands Beach: how do I get to the city of St Andrews?
The beach is located near the city of St Andrews. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for St Andrews.